Ralph R. Heppner

Ralph Roger Heppner, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather passed away after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Ralph was born in Plentywood on January 20, 1941, the third oldest of six children of Henry and Susie (Lasar) Heppner. He grew up on the family farm northeast of Plentywood, graduating from Plentywood High School in 1958 and then earning a degree in Diesel Mechanics from North Dakota State School of Science. Ralph met the love of his life, Linda Lagerquist, and after courting her for two years, they were married on June 18, 1966 in Plentywood. After making their home in Minot, ND while Linda finished nursing school, they then moved to Glasgow, MT in the summer of 1968 where Ralph worked as a mechanic. Ralph and Linda moved to Plentywood in the fall of 1969 to be close to family and raise their children.

Ralph wore many hats throughout his life – mechanic, farmer, handyman, and insurance agent – he excelled at each with quiet pride. Whether fixing an engine, tending to his land, helping a neighbor in need, or assisting an insurance client, he approached every task with patience and skill. His ability to build, repair, or create made Ralph the person everyone called when they needed something done right.

His home in Plentywood was Ralph's favorite place. Nestled in the country, it was where he felt most at peace – taking care of the property, fixing vehicles, working in his workshop, gardening, or spending time with his wife. Wherever Ralph went, he quickly made friends. Everyone knew Ralph and he would greet them with a smile and a hearty hello and a bit of humor.

Above all, Ralph cherished his family. Time with his children and grandchildren brought him immense joy, and their laughter was one of his greatest treasures. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness that will continue to guide those who knew him.
Ralph is survived by his wife Linda and their three children and families. His son Troy (Susan) of Olathe, KS and their children Megan (Adam) Zweifel, Thomas (fiancée Baylee), Michael, and John; daughter Tricia (Keith) Berezay of Billings, MT and their children Blake (fiancée Amanda), Brittany, Brooke (and her son Jaylyn), and Brea; and son Ty (Ashley) of Park City, MT and their children Nicholas and Benjamin. He is also survived by his siblings, Lawrence (Mary Lou); Dorothy Kratovil; Irene Anderson; and Michael (Sharon) Heppner, as well as brother-in-law Allan (Rhoda) Lagerquist, sister-in-law Myrnette Miller, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Walter and wife Vonna, and his brothers-in-law Jim Kratovil and Glenn Miller. Ralph will be deeply missed, but the memories he created and the lessons he imparted will forever remain in the hearts of family and friends.

Funeral services for Ralph will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, November 24 at Plentywood Lutheran Church with a luncheon to immediately follow after the service.